If you have diabetes, look for Greek yogurt or Icelandic yogurt (also called skyr). During preparation of these, some of the whey is removed, leaving behind a thick, protein-rich product with fewer carbs than other types of yogurt. They also have lower levels of lactose (around 5%) than other yogurts.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommend yogurt as part of a healthful diet for people with diabetes. There are many different types of yogurt available. The examples below are also available with added probiotics: Greek yogurt contains double the protein of conventional yogurt.
People with diabetes should include dairy in their diet as a way to get calcium, high-quality protein and other important nutrients. Many dairy products easily fit into a diabetes meal plan, with low-fat and fat-free Chobani® Yogurt being among the best options. Chobani® Yogurt Fits the Bill!
If you have type 2 diabetes breakfast cereals made with wholegrains can help to manage blood glucose levels, they release glucose more slowly as they are low GI. Weetabix, Oatibix and Shredded Wheat can make for good choices.
Check the Labels on Greek Yogurt
The best choice is always a nonfat version, Ross says. In terms of flavor, plain varieties also work best for diabetics over the fruit-filled choices. “If there's fruit on the bottom, it means there's going to be more sugar and carbs in it,” Ross warns.
Chobani Zero Sugar Yogurt
Chobani's sugar-free option is sweetened with stevia, monk fruit and allulose, so it contains 0 grams of sugar per serving (along with 11 grams of protein and 70 calories or less, depending on the flavor).
Yogurt is a great snack choice if you have diabetes. It's a low glycemic food that's loaded with beneficial nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and beneficial bacteria.
People with diabetes may need to limit the amount of flavored sweetened milk they drink. People with diabetes may choose to use milk products that are full fat or whole, reduced fat or fat free depending on their preference or their calorie and nutrition goals.
The American Diabetes Association recommends choosing whole grain bread or 100 percent whole wheat bread instead of white bread. White bread is made from highly processed white flour and added sugar. Here are some delicious and healthy breads to try: Joseph's Flax, Oat Bran and Wheat Pita Bread.
People living with diabetes who want to enjoy yoghurt should avoid yoghurts with packaged toppings and not buy yoghurt without checking the on-pack nutritional information. Whole grains could be a great addition to a smoothie to make it crunchier and up the nutrition stakes.
The short answer: No. However, because most yogurts are relatively high in protein and low in sugar, adding yogurt to your meal may help you avoid insulin spikes from other foods and therefore assist in keeping your blood glucose levels steady.
“Yogurt naturally contains both high-quality carbohydrates and protein, making it an excellent food for slowing or preventing an unhealthy rise in blood sugar,” Ficek says.
Icelandic yogurt is strained more than Greek yogurt, leaving it with higher protein content. Oikos Pro is protein packed and contains little sugar and fat, landing it the number two spot on the list. Coming in at No. 1 is Siggi's Strained Icelandic-Style Skyr.
Because nutritionists urge us to avoid too many sweets, going Greek is a smarter choice. “Greek has a lower amount of sugar (around 5-8 grams, compared to 12 or more grams) than the regular yogurt, while still having the high levels of vitamins and minerals,” Ewoldt says.
Opting for plain Greek yogurt would be the healthiest choice, and you can stir in fresh fruit or granola.
Chobani® Less Sugar Greek Yogurt* is a subtly sweet, breakfast or anytime snack that's packed with protein, made with nothing artificial, and has 40% less sugar* than similar yogurts. *Chobani® Less Sugar Greek Yogurt: 9g sugar per 5.3oz; similar yogurts without sugar substitutes: avg. 16g sugar per 5.3oz.
Chobani® with Zero Sugar*
A one-of-a-kind dairy product with zero sugar*, sweetened with only natural, non-GMO sugar alternatives. Under 70 calories, lots of protein, and no lactose.
Siggi's was the winner! It has more protein than sugar and really tastes good! It is thick and creamy like Greek yogurt, but has less sugar and more protein!
Diabetics can likely eat unsweetened dark chocolate. Dark chocolate offers all the benefits of the chocolate diet without the possible negative health effects of lots of sugar. While dark chocolate still has some carbohydrates and fats, the lower glycemic index means it is less likely to cause insulin spikes.
Fortunately, sourdough bread can be good for people who have or are predisposed to diabetes. Research suggests not only is sourdough an ideal part of a balanced diet, but it can also help to manage blood sugar levels and provide other benefits, which is important when dealing with diabetes.
Peanut butter contains essential nutrients, and it can be part of a healthful diet when a person has diabetes. However, it is important to eat it in moderation, as it contains a lot of calories. People should also make sure their brand of peanut butter is not high in added sugar, salt, or fat.